Mummy Buzz

Sep
14
2012

Kathy Bates Chooses Mastectomy Over Chemo

I Don't Miss my Breasts...

Kathy Bates is one brave lady. Forget the sinister sledgehammer-wielding face of Misery which nabbed her an Oscar back in 1991. According to an article in the BBC, the Emmy-nominated star of Harry's Law underwent a double mastectomy following a breast cancer diagnosis two months ago.

"I don't miss my breasts as much as I miss Harry's Law," tweeted 64 year old Bates earlier this week. 

After much consideration, Bates revealed to People Magazine that she had opted for the mastectomy over radiation and chemotherapy.

"My doctors have assured me I'm going to be around for a long time," she added with trademark joviality. Her fans will be pleased to hear that Bates is eager to get back to the work she loves: acting.

In her shoes, I very much doubt I would sound so chirpy, having been through her ordeal, especially given she's been there once before. According to the BBC, in 2003 the About Schmidt and Primary Colors actor also contracted—and ultimately beat—ovarian cancer.

"My family calls me Kat because I always land on my feet and thankfully this is no exception," said Bates, who also seems to be feline in that she has nine lives!

I will be thinking of you, Kathy, and so many of my dear friends, as I run as part of Team YMC to kick breast cancer on September 30th...

Breasts are such an integral part of a woman's sexual identity and femininity. Would you choose a mastectomy over chemotherapy as Bates did?